“Toproping” is rock climbing with the rope anchored at the top of the climb, as opposed to “lead” climbing, where a climber places protection as he or she goes. Having a top anchor lessens the potential distance of a fall and creates a more controlled situation in which to hone your climbing technique. Toproping is at the heart of learning to climb, and being able to safely set up and manage toprope situations is a critical component in the development of any climber. While it seems simple on the surface, topropes must be rigged and configured properly in accordance with sound safety principles—and that’s where this book comes in.
Bob Gaines began his career as a professional rock climbing guide in 1983 and is the owner of Vertical Adventures Rock Climbing School. Bob is an American Mountain Guides Association (AMGA) Certified Rock Instructor and is the co-author of Rock Climbing: The AMGA Single Pitch Manual, which is the textbook for the AMGA's single pitch instructor program.
He has worked extensively training US military special forces, including the elite US Navy SEAL Team 6, and is known for his technical expertise in anchoring and small team rescue techniques.